Hotfix

Hotfixes in software development address critical issues, such as system crashes, data loss, or security vulnerabilities, that require immediate attention. Unlike regular updates or patches, hotfixes are released outside the normal deployment cycle to minimize downtime and impact. They are usually developed and tested quickly, often under tight time constraints, and applied directly to production systems.

While hotfixes solve urgent issues, they may introduce new bugs or regressions if not properly validated. That’s why teams often apply strict deployment protocols even when time is limited. A hotfix is typically narrow in scope, targeting only the issue at hand without adding new features.

Businesses rely on hotfixes to maintain service reliability, security, and customer trust. In agile and DevOps environments, fast turnaround on hotfixes is essential for minimizing disruption. Proper release management ensures hotfixes are documented, monitored, and followed by thorough updates.